Research Interests

Immunological resources to support immunological research

Research Area

The XlRRI is the world's most comprehensive resource specializing in the use of the amphibian Xenopus laevis for biomedical and immunological research. Several genetically-defined inbred strains and clones are available for study. The facility also maintains and develops research tools such as transgenic animals, monoclonal antibodies, cell lines, DNA libraries and molecular probes. The resource includes a satellite facility devoted to study infectious diseases caused by iridovirus. Technical assistance, education and training are also provided. The resource is supported by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIH/NIAID).

Current Members

Robert, Jacques (Principal Investigator/Director) Contact

Additional Information

Xenopus exhibits an immune system fundamentally similar to that of mammals including leukocytes involved in innate immunity as well as B and T lymphocytes expressing a wide repertoire of somatically generated receptors. Because its immune system remarkably conserved and similar to that of mammals, Xenopus serve as a useful animal model, alternative to mouse for fundamental and medical immunological research related to infectious, developmental and autoimmune diseases as well as cancer. Resources include mAbs, cell lines and transgenic animals, to empower Xenopus as a research platform for immunological research.

Contact

Institution: University of Rochester Medical Center

Web Page: https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/microbiology-immunology/research/xenopus-laevis.aspx